HOOFDDORP, Netherlands—Barentz International B.V., a chemical ingredient wholesaler and solutions provider, has appointed Derk Jan Terhorst as CEO, effective Jan. 1.
Terhorst succeeds Terry Hill, who has served as interim CEO since May of last year.
"After a rigorous selection process, we are confident that Derk Jan is the ideal leader to guide Barentz into its next phase of growth," said Ben Osnabrug, partner at Cinven and member of the Barentz Supervisory Board. "His deep understanding of our business and proven ability to deliver results will ensure a seamless transition and will help us unlock new opportunities going forward.
"Having collaborated closely with the board in recent years, we have every confidence that Derk Jan will ensure the continued success of Barentz while driving forward our strategic ambitions. I would also like to thank Terry for his service as interim CEO and wish him all the best in his future endeavors."
Terhorst has been with Barentz for more than three years as chief financial officer, driving strategic initiatives with success. Terhorst also has held senior management positions at Ahold Delhaize and Tony's Chocolonely.
"I am honored to take on this role and continue working alongside our talented teams around the world. Barentz has built an impressive legacy, and I believe our winning strategy—focusing on best-in-class principal management, sales acceleration and operational excellence—positions us well for an exciting future," Terhorst said. "The hard work, dedication and loyalty of our global work force are the cornerstones of our success.
"I look forward to building on our strong foundations and leading Barentz through the next chapter of growth, as we strive to become a global leader in the specialty ingredients sector."
A new CFO has been hired but not yet announced, with that person assuming the role May 1. Terhorst will maintain financial responsibilities until then, according to Barentz.
Barentz, with annual sales of about $2.6 billion, sources specialty ingredients from leading manufacturers worldwide and has formulation centers and application laboratories in EMEA, Americas and Asia-Pacific.
Established in 1953, the company employs around 2,700 people.